Apparatus and method for making a corrugated product

ABSTRACT

The invention describes a device and method for making corrugated products. The device can be used with any substrate and includes, at least, first and second drive rollers for driving a middle substrate and a single wall corrugated product. In other embodiments the invention includes upper drive rollers, lower drive rollers and middle drive rollers for driving an upper substrate, a lower substrate and a middle substrate. The middle substrate is driven between the upper and lower substrates at a higher velocity to form flutes that are anchored between the upper an lower substrates thereby forming a corrugated product. The invention also provides for customized corrugated products having multiple fluted substrates in various desirable arrangements. Examples of such products include mattresses, partition panels, other furniture, construction products such as tubes or pipes previously made from metals or concrete.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. application Ser. No.14/041,141, filed Sep. 30, 2013 which is a divisional of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/177,243 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,580,061, filed Jul.6, 2011, which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/362,115, filed Jul. 7, 2010,and 61/411,898, filed Nov. 9, 2010 and 61/493,655, filed Jun. 6, 2011,the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to a process and an apparatus tofabricate a corrugated material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Corrugated materials are extremely useful because of their inexpensivecost and high strength compared to weight and their ability to be formedinto finished materials ranging from boxes, spacers, structural elementsetc. However, while corrugated cardboard is extremely useful it hasseveral disadvantages. First, the appearance of the cardboard can beless then desirable. Second, the surface is rough and rigid and is proneto wrinkling. Third, while corrugated cardboard is relatively strong forits weight, it still lacks the needed support for heavy jobs tending tobend and pucker when placed under sideways pressure. Fourth, corrugatedpaper materials have little water resistance turn pulpy after exposureto moisture, whether ambient or direct.

Current technology used to corrugate includes the following process. Inorder to mold a medium into the required waveform, typically the mediumgets pressed between two rollers that resemble wide gears. The teeth ofthe gears fit tightly together. When the medium is fed between the tworollers, the grooves force the medium into the desired waveform formingflutes. The frequency and amplitude of the waveform are determined bythe frequency of grooves on the rollers and the depth of those grooves.Glue is often used to bond the corrugated layer to the flat layers. Adifferent corrugating process is often used to corrugate metal andplastic sheeting where the flutes are oriented parallel to the directionof the material travel. The flutes are forced into the material bystaggered rollers on the top and bottom of the material. Thus,corrugation of different substrates requires different types oftechnologies tailored to each substrate.

The limitations of the conventional corrugation process include: (1) Thefrequency and amplitude of the resulting wave are not easily adjustable,and certainly not in real time. This is because the exact frequency andamplitude of the wave are determined by the dimensions of the rollersused. In order to make any changes, the rollers must be swapped with adifferent set of rollers. This requires down time during the changeover.(2) Sets of rollers are expensive, therefore manufacturers typicallyhave a limited number of them. This limits production to a set number ofdiscrete frequencies and amplitudes. (3) This conventional method iswell suited for smaller corrugations which have an amplitude in therange of ⅛^(th) to ¼″. However, it becomes more difficult for largercorrugations in the range of 1″ up to several feet. Corrugation oflarger amplitudes would require rollers that would be so big that itwould be cost prohibitive. (4) The conventional method is well suitedonly for materials that will hold their shape after being molded bycorrugating rollers. Typically paper must be heated and steam treatedbefore corrugation so that it will hold its shape well. Materials with alow plasticity and high memory such as rubber or certain plastics maynot hold their shape after going through corrugating rollers andtherefore would be difficult to corrugate using conventional methods.

Therefore, a need exists for an apparatus and process that providescorrugated material that overcomes one or more of the currentdisadvantages noted above.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention surprisingly provides an apparatus and process formaking a corrugated material that has improved strength and resistanceto pressure from all directions, can be resistant to water and can beadapted to have more pleasing aesthetic appearance while at the sametime providing greater ease of manufacture, more energy efficiency andthe use and production of less toxic chemicals. The invention describesa device and method for making corrugated products. The device can beused with any substrate and includes upper and lower drive rollers fordriving an upper and lower substrate and middle drive rollers fordriving a middle substrate. When the middle substrate is driven betweenthe upper and lower substrates to form flutes that are anchored betweenthe upper and lower substrates to form a corrugated product of the threelayers.

In one embodiment the invention provides, A method to prepare acorrugated product, comprising the steps of: providing an upper and alower substrate at a rate of V₁ and V₂ wherein the upper and lowersubstrates are maintained at a distance S₁ from each other; andproviding a middle substrate, interposed between the upper substrate andthe lower substrate, at a rate of V₃, at a trajectory to impact theupper or lower substrates, wherein the rate V₃ is greater than the ratesof V₁, and V₂ such that the middle substrate forms flutes alternatelycontacting the upper and lower substrates; wherein a corrugated productis formed. In the exemplary embodiments, V₁ and V₂ will be the same.However, in various exemplary embodiments of the invention, V₁ and V₂may differ from each other.

In yet another embodiment, an apparatus is provided to prepare acorrugated product. The apparatus includes:

a first pair of drive rollers to drive a middle substrate through thefeed guide and actuated to have a velocity V₃;

a form guide positioned after the first pair of drive rollers; whereinthe form guide provides an upper surface to guide an upper substrate anda lower surface to guide a lower substrate;

a second pair of drive rollers actuated to have a velocity V₁, whereinV₃ is greater than V₁;

a bonding device positioned about the upper surface and the lowersurface of the form guide, wherein the bonding device attaches themiddle substrate to the upper and lower substrates; wherein a corrugatedproduct is prepared.

The invention provides yet another exemplary embodiment of an apparatusis to prepare a corrugated product comprising:

a first pair of drive rollers to feed a middle substrate at a rate V₃;

a form guide, positioned to accept the middle substrate from the firstpair of drive rollers, the form guide comprising an upper and a lowersurface separated by a distance S₁, wherein the form guide accepts anupper substrate on its upper surface and a lower substrate on its lowersurface;

a bonding device positioned about the upper surface and the lowersurface of the form guide, wherein the bonding device attaches flutes ofthe middle substrate to the upper and lower substrates to provide acorrugated product;

a second pair of drive rollers positioned after the form guide and pullsthe corrugated product through the apparatus; wherein a corrugatedarticle is produced.

In this embodiment, the form guide is a set of substantially parallelplates, parallel rollers or combinations thereof. In still otheraspects, the apparatus according to the invention, a feed guide isprovided to accept the middle substrate from the drive rollers and feedthe middle substrate into the form guide. In some embodiments, the feedguide comprises two plates separated by a distance that can be varied toaccept the middle substrate.

In still another embodiment, the invention provides a method of making acorrugated product comprising:

(a) providing an upper substrate and a lower substrate, the uppersubstrate moving at a velocity V₁ and the lower substrate moving at avelocity V₂, the upper substrate and the lower substrate beingessentially parallel to each other and separated by a distance ‘S₁’;

(b) providing a middle substrate, the middle substrate situated betweenthe upper substrate and the lower substrate and moving at a velocity V₃,wherein V₃ is greater than V₁ or V₂;

(c) propelling the middle substrate at a trajectory to contact the uppersubstrate or the lower substrate, wherein upon contact with the uppersubstrate or the lower substrate, the middle substrate rebounds in anopposite direction to contact the opposing substrate, wherein, uponcontact with the opposing substrate, the middle substrate rebounds tocontact the other substrate; and

(d) attaching the point of contact of the middle substrate with theupper substrate and the lower substrate such that the middle substrateforms flutes between the upper substrate and the lower substrate;

wherein a corrugated product is provided.

In still another embodiment, the invention provides a corrugated foammattress comprising a first corrugated product, the first corrugatedproduct including:

an upper substrate;

a middle substrate;

a lower substrate;

two side perimeter pieces; and

two end perimeter pieces;

wherein the middle substrate is fluted and the flutes are fixed to theupper and lower substrates to form a single wall corrugated product; and

wherein the two side pieces are fixed to the sides of the corrugatedproduct and the two end pieces are fixed to the ends of the foam productto enclose the interior of the mattress.

In some exemplary embodiments, the mattress further provides a secondcorrugated product adhered to the top or bottom substrate wherein thesecond corrugated product comprises a second upper substrate, a secondlower substrate and a second middle substrate corrugated between thesecond upper and lower substrates and two side perimeter pieces and twoend perimeter pieces.

In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a method of making afoam mattress comprising a first corrugated product including:

preparing a single wall foam corrugated product having an uppersubstrate, a middle substrate and a lower substrate;

-   -   wherein the middle substrate is fluted and the flutes of the        middle substrate are attached to the upper and lower substrates;        and    -   attaching foam perimeter pieces around the outside of the single        wall corrugated product to make a foam mattress.

In various exemplary embodiments, the method of making a mattressfurther includes: a second corrugated product adhered to the top orbottom substrate wherein the second corrugated product comprises asecond upper substrate, a second lower substrate and a second middlesubstrate corrugated between the second upper and lower substrates andtwo side perimeter pieces and two end perimeter pieces.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the invention provides a method ofmaking an essentially endless tube or culvert having any requireddiameter and a cross section that may be circular or oval. According tothis embodiment, the method includes:

A method to prepare a continuous corrugated tube, comprising the stepsof:

-   -   (a) providing an upper and a lower substrate at a rate of V₁ and        V₂ wherein the upper and lower substrates are maintained at a        distance S₁ from each other; and    -   (b) providing a middle substrate, interposed between the upper        substrate and the lower substrate, at a rate of V₃, at a        trajectory to impact the upper or lower substrates, the middle        substrate rebounds in an opposite direction to contact the        opposing substrate, wherein the rate V₃ is greater than the        rates of V₁, and V₂ such that the middle substrate forms flutes        alternately contacting the upper and lower substrates;    -   (c) maintaining a rate of either V₁ or V₂ greater than the rate        of V₂ or V₁ respectively resulting in a curved corrugated        product; and    -   (d) implementing a process to impart a helical twist to the        corrugation such that a top edge of the product abuts a bottom        edge of the product to from a spiral

wherein a continuous corrugated tube is formed.

According to some embodiments of the method a continuous tube is formedhaving:

-   -   an upper substrate;    -   a middle substrate; and    -   a lower substrate;    -   wherein the middle substrate is fluted and the flutes are fixed        to the upper and lower substrates to form a single wall        corrugated product;    -   wherein a process is implemented to impart a helical twist to        the corrugation;    -   wherein a top edge of the construct abuts a bottom edge of the        construct at an angle such that the construct forms a spiral        tube.

In one aspect, the upper substrate or the lower substrate or both have aportion or portions that extend beyond the width of the middlesubstrate. The upper and/or lower substrates can be “left” or “right”justified so that only one side of the upper and/or lower substratesextend beyond the width of the middle substrate. This left or right sideextension of the upper and/or lower substrate(s) can then be adhered toitself as the continuous tube is formed in a spiral or helical fashion.The extension can be heat sealed, ultrasonically welded, adhered withadhesives, taped with a subsequent layer of an adhesive tape, or othermethods known in the art to adhere materials to each other.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description. As will be apparent, the inventionis capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Accordingly, the detailed descriptions are to be regarded asillustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing illustrating one exemplary embodiment of acorrugated product apparatus according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second exemplary embodimentof the invention wherein adhesives are use to affix the flutes the tothe upper and lower substrate.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a third exemplary embodimentof the invention wherein ultrasonic welding is used to affix the flutesto the upper and lower substrates.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fourth exemplary embodimentof the invention where V₁ and V₂ can differ from each other.

FIG. 5 is a schematic drawing illustrating one embodiment of theapparatus according to the invention having a set of form rollersinstead of a form guide as shown in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1. In this embodiment, the middle substrate is fed directly intodrive rollers.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodimentof the invention wherein the corrugating apparatus includes neither aform guide nor a feed guide.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the invention usedfor making a double corrugated product. In this embodiment, a fourth andfifth media are used to provide an outer substrate of the corrugatedproduct.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of theinvention used for making a double walled corrugation product. In thisembodiment, a fourth substrate is used to provide a separate flutedlayer to the corrugated product.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of theinvention used for making a single-substrate, corrugated product. FIG.9B is an inset of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a CAD rendering of one embodiment ofthe corrugation apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1-9.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the CAD rendering of FIG. 10 whereinone of the support structures has been removed to better illustrated theinternal rollers.

FIG. 12 is a close up of the internal rollers illustrated in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 cut-away, perspective view of one embodiment of a mattress madeaccording to the invention.

FIG. 14 is a cut-away, perspective view of another embodiment of amattress made according to the invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a corrugated plastic panel madeaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a top-plan perspective view of a corrugated plastic panel asshown in FIG. 14 but with the upper substrate having a pre-printedpicture on it.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of the corrugated plastic panel shown inFIG. 14 illustrating some usable sizes of plastic and dimensions of thepanel according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a top-plan perspective view of a corrugated stainless steelpanel made using the corrugation apparatus according to one embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating some usable sizes anddimensions of the stainless steel panel shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a chair, according to one embodiment ofthe invention, made by varying only V₁ and V₂ in real time using thecorrugation apparatus.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a bookshelf made using the corrugationapparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a partition panel made using thecorrugation apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a corrugated column made using thecorrugation apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a top-plan perspective view of a building constructed usingcorrugated wall panels according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a two-dimensional end-plan view of the continuous spiral tubebeing extruded from the corrugation apparatus.

FIG. 26 is a three-dimensional perspective view of the continuous spiraltube being extruded from the corrugation apparatus.

FIG. 27 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of thebonding of a continuous spiral tube being extruded from the corrugationapparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of acontinuous spiral tube according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of thebonding of a cantilevered continuous spiral tube being extruded from thecorrugation apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of acontinuous spiral tube being extruded from the corrugation apparatusaccording to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 31 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of thebonding of a cantilevered continuous spiral tube being extruded from thecorrugation apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32 is a three-dimensional view of a planar perspective of thebonding of a cantilevered continuous spiral tube being extruded from thecorrugation apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 33 is a three-dimensional perspective view of the bonding of acantilevered continuous spiral tube being extruded from the corrugationapparatus according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34 is a two-dimensional view showing the feed guide angled withrespect to the form guide according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35 is a three-dimensional view of FIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a three-dimensional view showing the form guide in a twistedconfiguration according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 37 is a three-dimensional view showing a planer perspective ofcorrugation product being twisted according to one embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the specification and in the claims, the terms “including” and“comprising” are open-ended terms and should be interpreted to mean“including, but not limited to . . . .” These terms encompass the morerestrictive terms “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of:”

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, thesingular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural reference unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. As well, the terms “a” (or “an”),“one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. Itis also to be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including”,“characterized by” and “having” can be used interchangeably.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art to which this invention belongs. All publications and patentsspecifically mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in theirentirety for all purposes including describing and disclosing thechemicals, instruments, statistical analyses and methodologies which arereported in the publications which might be used in connection with theinvention. All references cited in this specification are to be taken asindicative of the level of skill in the art. Nothing herein is to beconstrued as an admission that the invention is not entitled to antedatesuch disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

Traditional corrugated products, such as cardboard and paper are madefirst, by pulping wood to make a coarse paper called kraft paper. Suchpulping and paper making is a chemical and energy intensive process. Inmaking cardboard, The kraft paper is then softened with high pressuresteam. While corrugated products may have multiple layers or substrates,typically there is a layer of “linerboard” on which the corrugatedmiddle “fluted” layer is glued. After the fluted layer is fixed to thefirst layer of linerboard a second linerboard is glued to the top of thefluted layer. Next the corrugated product is processed by pressurizedrollers and subjected to further heat treatment. The finished cardboardproduct can then be cut to desired sizes. In the production ofcorrugated paper products, it is necessary to pre-treat the paper priorto the corrugation process. This is because the paper is stiff and doesnot normally “bend” when flutes are formed as opposed to creasing andfolding and thereby losing its strengthening and protective capacity.Therefore, pre-treatment of the paper material by chemical and physicalprocesses including pressure and steam is required to make thecorrugated paper product.

In conventional corrugated products a “single face” product refers tocorrugation which comprises a single sheet of linerboard with thecorrugated middle layer attached only to that face. “Single wall” refersto construction in which the corrugated medium is sandwiched between twofaces of linerboard. Double wall corrugation refers a corrugated producthaving 3 layers of linerboard alternating with two layers of flutedmedium. Similarly “triple wall” corrugation would have four layers oflinerboard separated by three layers of fluted medium. It should beunderstood that the instant invention is not limited to a single wallproduct or any other product but can be optimized to make any type ofconventional and non-conventional corrugated product.

The instant invention provides alternative methods for making corrugatedproducts out of various types of media using various substrates.Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of an apparatus for making asingle wall corrugated product 16 according to the invention isillustrated. As shown, the apparatus 10 includes a feed guide 20 forfeeding a middle substrate 22 of a medium to be corrugated. Theapparatus 10 also includes an upper and a lower portion of a form guide30 for guiding an upper substrate 32 and a lower substrate 34 of mediumfor the corrugated product 16. As illustrated, middle substrate 22, isfed into the feed guide 20 in between upper substrate 32 and the lowersubstrate 34. Upper substrate 32 is fed over an upper guide roller 36and lower substrate 34 is fed over a lower guide roller 38. Afterpassing over the guide rollers 36 and 38 upper substrate 32 and lowersubstrate 34 are bent toward the middle substrate 22 where they eachcontact an upper and lower feed rollers 40 which feeds the uppersubstrate 32 and the lower substrate 34 into the form 30. Further, theapparatus is designed so that the middle substrate 22 is fed into theform 30 equidistant between the first substrate 32 and the secondsubstrate 34.

Middle substrate 22 is fed into a first set of drive rollers 42 at avelocity V₃. After passing through the drive rollers 42 middle substrate22 passes through a feed guide 20 which directs middle substrate 22 tobe fed into a space, S₁, between upper substrate 32 and lower substrate34. Distal to the form 30 are an upper drive roller 46 and a lower driveroller 47 which rotate at desired speeds driving substrates 32 and 34 atvelocities V₁ and V₂, respectively. Also shown are heaters 48 which areapposed to the upper and lower substrates 32, 34 as they enter form 30.Those of skill in the art will appreciate that when V₃ is greater thanV₁ and V₂, the middle substrate 22 will bend as it contacts the upper orlower substrate 32, 34. When the media (e.g., substrates 22, 32 and/or34) are meltable, heaters 48 heat the surface of the media such that asmiddle substrate 22 contacts either the upper substrate 32 or the lowersubstrate 34 it is fixed or bonded in place such that the entirecorrugated sandwich is formed as it passes through the form guides 30.

Of course, those of skill in the art will appreciate that, V₁ and V₂,generally are equal when driven by drive rollers 47 and 48 that contactthe upper 32 and lower 34 substrates after the middle substrate 22 isfixed to the upper and lower substrates 32, 34. However, in alternativeembodiments, illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 4 and 7, the driverollers 62 and 64 contact the upper 32 and lower 34 substratesrespectively before the middle substrate 22 is fixed thereto. As isillustrated, in this embodiment, the faster feed of the upper 32 orlower 34 substrate into the form 56 or 58 results in the entirecorrugated product being curved in the direction of the slower movingsubstrate as shown n FIG. 4.

In addition, it should be understood that the process can be automatedby driving the drive rollers with a motor. In some embodiments, when theV₁ is equal to V₂, drive rollers 46 and 47 and 62 and 64 can be driventogether in any conventional manner. For example, a chain on the motordrive shaft can propel sprockets attached to rollers 46 and 47 or 62 and64 together such that V₁ and V₂ are equal. In addition, the same motorcan drive the middle substrate at a desired velocity V₃ by using adifferent size sprocket such that drive rollers 42 rotate at a higherspeed. Of course, those of skill in the art will realize that separatemotors can be used to drive each of the drive roller pairs such that thevelocity V₁, V₂ and V₃ can be adjusted separately without the need to“gear” each of the drive rollers at a particular ratio. In addition,when multiple motors are used, the relative velocities of V₁, V₂ and V₃can be adjusted separately in real time so as to vary differently fromeach other over time during the course of fabrication. In thisembodiment, a product such as 16 shown in FIG. 7 can be made by alteringthe ratio of V₁ and V₂ in real time as single wall corrugated product 16is being produced.

Of course, those of skill in the art will appreciate that when V₁ and V₂are adjustable in real time, any shaped corrugated product can be made.For example, cylindrical shapes and/or square shapes can be generated.For example, FIG. 23 illustrates a corrugated cylinder made using theinstant invention where the ratio of V₁ to V₂ (or V₂ to V₁) is constantand always greater, thereby providing a constant curvature with thesubstrate having the greater V being on the outside and the lesser Vbeing on the inside of the cylinder. Those of skill in the art willappreciate that the motors for each of the drive rollers can becontrolled by a programmable computer system such that manual control isnot necessary. In addition, it will be appreciated that each of therollers of a pair of drive rollers must rotate in the oppositedirection. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the upper drive roller ofdrive roller pair 42 would rotate in the clockwise direction while thelower drive roller would rotate in the counterclockwise direction.Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1 drive roller 46 would rotate clockwisewhile drive roller 47 rotates counterclockwise.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that when the fluted, middlesubstrate 22, is made of a polymer media such as, for example, foam, thesubstrate is resilient and malleable. Therefore, the substrate 22 bendsupon impact with upper substrate 32 and lower substrate and allows forinstant bonding of middle substrate 22 to the upper and lower substratesupon impact. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the reboundof middle substrate 22 upon impact with the upper substrate 32 and dueto its malleability, drives the middle substrate in the oppositedirection to impact the lower substrate 34 and vice versa. Further, thepoint of impact of middle substrate 22 onto upper and lower substrates32 and 34 after exiting feed guide 20, affects the shape of the fluteand the bonding of the middle substrate 22 to upper and lower substrates32, 34. Thus, in some embodiments middle substrate 22 may impact upperand lower substrates 32/34 while those substrates are still in contactwith form rollers 40. In this respect, the instant invention providesmuch greater utility compared to conventional corrugation techniquesbecause with paper, the middle substrate is first treated and thenpressed into the desired shape using grooved rollers. Once removed fromthe rollers, the fluted paper is then glued to the opposing linerboards.

In various exemplary embodiments, the invention further comprisestrimming blades 50 that finish the sides of the corrugated product to asmooth and even edge. In various other exemplary embodiments, alsoincluded in the invention is a cutting apparatus 60 that cuts thecorrugated product to desired length.

However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that trimming blades50 do not need to be located after the end of the apparatus. In variousembodiments, the cutting blades 50 do not need to trim all 3 layers atone time. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, in variousembodiments, it may be desirable to trim each substrate layer to adifferent width. In these embodiments, there would need to be threeseparate trimming blades. According to these embodiments, multipleblades could be located anywhere along the corrugation process feasible.Further, when multiple trimming blades are used, they could bedistributed at different places along the process. For example, themiddle substrate 22 could be trimmed before it enters form 20, whereasouter substrates 32 and 34 could be trimmer after the form but beforedrive rollers 46 and 47.

FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus used tomake corrugated products 10 according to the invention. In theembodiment shown, the general design is the same as shown in FIG. 1,however, FIG. 2 illustrates that, in this embodiment, the fixing of theflutes 24 to the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34 is achieved by useof an adhesive 52 which is applied to the apex of each flute 24 bondingit to the upper and lower substrate 32 and 34 and resulting in a singlewalled corrugated product 16.

FIG. 3 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the invention whereinthe flutes are bonded to the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34 usingan ultrasonic welder 54. Ultrasonic welders 54 can be embedded into theform itself (FIG. 3). This will be most applicable when the mediacomprising the substrates being bonded are either metal or polymerfilms.

It should be understood that the drive rollers shown in FIGS. 1 through3 can be substituted with any other mechanical means of driving thesubstrates such as, but not limited to, a conveyer belt, caterpillartracks, etc.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, instead of feedingsubstrates 32 and 34 into form 30, synchronously with middle substrate22, the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34 can be fed into theapparatus 10 at the end of form 30 after substrate 22 has beencorrugated and gone through the form 30 (noted in FIGS. 2 and 3).Substrate 22 will hold its corrugated shape until it exits form 30 aslong as the flutes slide along the inside walls of form 30. Oneadvantage to this method is that an adhesive or solvent can be easilyapplied to the crests of the wave via the inside of form 30 asillustrated at 52 (FIG. 2).

It should also be understood that each flute can be bonded either as onecontinuous bond along the entire width of the wave, or it can be spotwelded. For example, in these embodiments several spot welds on the topand the bottom of the fluted layer, for example, 4 on the top and 4 onthe bottom are generally sufficient depending on the width of thesubstrates and the material properties of the substrate. However, thoseof skill in the art will recognize that width can vary from almost zero(which would be a wire) all the way up to a theoretical limit of thewidth of the substrate available. In various exemplary embodiments, mostapplications will be in the range of 12″ to 96″. However, it should beappreciated that any limitation regarding the width of the substratesresults solely from the widths the raw materials are available in. Theability to easily cut the foam sheets to any desirable size, eitherbefore or after corrugation adds to the utility of the invention.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the instant invention canbe used to make corrugated products out of many different types of mediaor substrates. For example, while the media can be cardboard or paper,the media can also be polymer products. Such polymer products can be inthe form of foam products. Such foam products can be made ofpolyethylene and/or polylactic acid foamed products such as thatcommercially available from, for example iVEX Protective Packaging Inc,Bridgeview, Ill.; Sealed Air, Elmwood Park, N.J., SAFOAM®, ReedyInternational Corporation of Keyport, N.J., and HYDROCEROL®, BoehringerIngelheim of Ingelheim, Germany. Other media usable for corrugatedproducts includes plastic films such as polypropylene and metals such assteel, aluminum or the like. Therefore, it should be appreciated that invarious embodiments, suitable materials for the upper substrate, lowersubstrate and/or the corrugated product includepoly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof.

Other non-biodegradable polymers useful in the present inventioninclude, but are not limited to, various cellulose derivatives(carboxymethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose acetatepropionate, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose,hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, and alkyl celluloses), silicon andsilicon-based polymers (such as polydimethylsiloxane),polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate), poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone,poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide, polyacetal, polyester, polyethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or“Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber, polyethylene, polypropylene,polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene, poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene,polymethylpentene, polysulfone, non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate(e.g., ethylene vinyl acetate disks and poly(ethylene-co-vinylacetate)), methacrylates, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), and other relatedviscoelastic polymers such as those sold under the brand names SEPTON®by Kuraray; WonderGel® (Gelastic®), EdiZONE, LLC of Alpine, Utah; andKraton®, Shell Chemical Company of Houstan, Tex.

In one embodiment, the viscoelastic polymer is as described in one ormore of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,749,111, 6,026,527, 6,413,458 7,060,213, and7,666,341, the contents of which are incorporated herein in theirentirety.

The compositions of the materials referred to as “viscoelastic gels” maybe low durometer (as defined below) thermoplastic gelatinous elastomericcompounds and visco-elastomeric compounds that include a principlepolymer component, an elastomeric block copolymer component, and aplasticizer component.

The elastomer component of the gel material can include a triblockpolymer of the general configuration A-B-A, wherein the A represents adesired polymer such as a monoalkenylarene polymer including, but notlimited to, polystyrene and functionalized polystyrene, and the B is anelastomeric polymer such as polyethylene, polybutylene,poly(ethylene/butylene), hydrogenated poly(isoprene), hydrogenatedpoly(butadiene), hydrogenated poly(isoprene+butadiene),poly(ethylene/propylene) or hydrogenatedpoly(ethylene/butylene+ethylene/propylene), or others. The A componentof the material links to each other to provide strength, while the Bcomponents provide elasticity. Polymers of greater molecular weight areachieved by combining many of the A components in the A portions of eachA-B-A structure and combining many of the B components in the B portionof the A-B-A structure, along with the networking of the A-B-A moleculesinto large polymer networks.

For example, an elastomer for making the gel material is a very high toultra high molecular weight elastomer and oil compound having anextremely high Brookfield Viscosity (hereinafter referred to as“solution viscosity”). Solution viscosity is generally indicative ofmolecular weight. “Solution viscosity” is defined as the viscosity of asolid when dissolved in toluene at 25° C. to 30° C., measured incentipoises (cps). “Very high molecular weight” is defined herein inreference to elastomers having a solution viscosity, 20 weight percentsolids in 80 weight percent toluene, the weight percentages being basedupon the total weight of the solution, from greater than about 20,000cps to about 50,000 cps. An “ultra high molecular weight elastomer” isdefined herein as an elastomer having a solution viscosity, 20 weightpercent solids in 80 weight percent toluene, of greater than about50,000 cps. Ultra high molecular weight elastomers have a solutionviscosity, 10 weight percent solids in 90 weight percent toluene, theweight percentages being based upon the total weight of the solution, ofabout 800 to about 30,000 cps and greater. The solution viscosities, in80 weight percent toluene, of the A-B-A block copolymers useful in theelastomer component of the gel cushioning material are substantiallygreater than 30,000 cps. The solution viscosities, in 90 weight percenttoluene, of the suitable A-B-A elastomers useful in the elastomercomponent of the gel are in the range of about 2,000 cps to about 20,000cps. Thus, the elastomer component of the viscoelastic gel material hasa very high to ultra high molecular weight.

After surpassing a certain optimum molecular weight range, someelastomers exhibit lower tensile strength than similar materials withoptimum molecular weight copolymers. Thus, merely increasing themolecular weight of the elastomer will not always result in increasedtensile strength.

The elastomeric B portion of the A-B-A polymers has an exceptionalaffinity for most plasticizing agents including, but not limited to,several types of oils, resins, and others. When the network of A-B-Amolecules is denatured, plasticizers that have an affinity for the Bblock can readily associate with the B blocks. Upon renaturation of thenetwork of A-B-A molecules, the plasticizer remains highly associatedwith the B portions, reducing or even eliminating plasticizer bleed fromthe material when compared with similar materials in the prior art, evenat very high oil:elastomer ratios. The reason for this performance maybe any of the plasticization theories (i.e., lubricity theory, geltheory, mechanistic theory, and free volume theory).

A suitable example of a viscoelastic gel cushioning medium is preferablyan ultra high molecular weight polystyrene-hydrogenatedpoly(isoprene+butadiene)-polystyrene, such as those sold under the brandnames SEPTON 4045, SEPTON 4055 and SEPTON 4077 by Kuraray Co., Ltd.,Okayama, Japan, an ultra high molecular weight polystyrene-hydrogenatedpolyisoprene-polystyrene such as the elastomers made by Kuraray and soldas SEPTON 2005 and SEPTON 2006, or an ultra high molecular weightpolystyrene-hydrogenated polybutadiene-polystyrene, such as that sold asSEPTON 8006 by Kuraray. High to very high molecular weightpolystyrene-hydrogenated poly(isoprene+butadiene)-polystyreneelastomers, such as that sold under the trade name SEPTON 4033 byKuraray, are also useful in some formulations of the gel materialbecause they are easier to process than the ultra high molecular weightelastomers due to their effect on the melt viscosity of the material.

Following hydrogenation of the midblocks of each of SEPTON 4033, SEPTON4045, SEPTON 4055, and SEPTON 4077, less than about five percent of thedouble bonds remain. Thus, substantially all of the double bonds areremoved from the midblock by hydrogenation.

A suitable gel is SEPTON 4055 or another material that has similarchemical and physical characteristics. SEPTON 4055 has the optimummolecular weight (approximately 300,000, as determined by gel permeationchromatography testing). SEPTON 4077 has a somewhat higher molecularweight, and SEPTON 4045 has a somewhat lower molecular weight thanSEPTON 4055. Materials that include either SEPTON 4045 or SEPTON 4077 asthe primary block copolymer typically have lower tensile strength thansimilar materials made with SEPTON 4055.

Kuraray Co., Ltd., of Okayama, Japan, has stated that the solutionviscosity of SEPTON 4055, an A-B-A triblock copolymer, 10% solids in 90%toluene at 25° C., is about 5,800 cps. Kuraray also said that thesolution viscosity of SEPTON 4055, 5% solids in 95% toluene at 25° C.,is about 90 cps. Although Kuraray has not provided a solution viscosity,20% solids in 80% toluene at 25° C., an extrapolation of the two datapoints given shows that such a solution viscosity would be about 400,000cps.

Other materials with chemical and physical characteristics similar tothose of SEPTON 4055 include other A-B-A triblock copolymers that have ahydrogenated midblock polymer that is made up of at least about 30%isoprene monomers and at least about 30% butadiene monomers, thepercentages being based on the total number of monomers that make up themidblock polymer. Similarly, other A-B-A triblock copolymers that have ahydrogenated midblock polymer that is made up of at least about 30%ethylene/propylene monomers and at least about 30% ethylene/butylenemonomers, the percentages being based on the total number of monomersthat make up the midblock polymer, are materials with chemical andphysical characteristics similar to those of SEPTON 4055.

Mixtures of block copolymer elastomers are also useful as the elastomercomponent of some of the formulations of the gel cushioning medium. Insuch mixtures, each type of block copolymer contributes differentproperties to the material. For example, high strength triblockcopolymer elastomers are desired to improve the tensile strength anddurability of a material. However, some high strength triblockcopolymers are very difficult to process with some plasticizers. Thus,in such a case, block copolymer elastomers that improve theprocessability of the materials are desirable.

In particular, the process of compounding SEPTON 4055 with plasticizersmay be improved via a lower melt viscosity by using a small amount ofmore flowable elastomer such as SEPTON 8006, SEPTON 2005, SEPTON 2006,or SEPTON 4033, to name only a few, without significantly changing thephysical characteristics of the material.

With regard to the usefulness of block copolymer elastomer mixtures inthe gel materials, many block copolymers are not good compatibilizers.Other block copolymers readily form compatible mixtures, but have otherundesirable properties. Thus, the use of a small amount of elastomersthat improve the uniformity with which a material mixes are desired.KRATON G 1701, manufactured by Shell Chemical Company of Houston, Tex.,is one such elastomer that improves the uniformity with which thecomponents of the gel material mix.

Many other elastomers including, but not limited to, triblock copolymersand diblock copolymers are also useful as substrate materials asdescribed herein or as an additional layer(s) to provide cushioningcomfort to the user.

Additional polymers can also include, but are not limited to, delrin,polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane, polyolefins (suchas polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides (such as polyacrylicacid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)), neoprene, nitrile, acrylates(such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate),methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, andcopolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone), N-vinyl lactams,polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof. Examples ofpolyurethanes include thermoplastic polyurethanes, aliphaticpolyurethanes, segmented polyurethanes, hydrophilic polyurethanes,polyether-urethane, polycarbonate-urethane and siliconepolyether-urethane.

Other suitable materials include, but are not limited to, lightly orhighly cross-linked biocompatible homopolymers and copolymers ofhydrophilic monomers such as 2-hydroxyalkyl acrylates and methacrylates,N-vinyl monomers, and ethylenically unsaturated acids and bases;polycyanoacrylate, polyethylene oxide-polypropylene glycol blockcopolymers, polygalacturonic acid, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinylacetate, polyalkylene glycols, polyethylene oxide, collagen, sulfonatedpolymers, vinyl ether monomers or polymers, alginate, polyvinyl amines,polyvinyl pyridine, and polyvinyl imidazole.

In one aspect, closed cell low density polyethylene (LDPE) foam is usedfor the upper substrate, lower substrate and corrugated substrate. Inuse, the corrugated articles made using the present invention could useany size substrate as long as it is flexible. Thus, the width, heightand thickness of the substrate may vary depending on the desired use ofthe corrugated product. For example, stiffer more structural corrugatedproducts may require thinner stiffer substrates as thin as about 1/16inch while product used in furniture manufacture, e.g., cushions andmattresses may require thicker substrates such as about ½ inch thick,but can be from about ⅛″ to about 1 inch thick. Closed cell polyethylenefoam has a good balance between rigidity and memory (meaning it willreturn to its original shape after bending) at a lower density thanother foams. This makes it a good support for the corrugated design.

Additionally, closed cell low density polyethylene is advantageous foruse in the articles of furniture noted herein as it is non-toxic.Polyethylene has been known to be a safe and stable material. It doesnot easily degrade or react with its surroundings, even after manyyears. It does not require any additives, like some other plastics. Itwill not “outgas” chemicals over its lifetime. This makes polyethylene aunique material for use in a baby product where it is important thatthere be no chemical leaching into the baby's environment. Other foams,like polyurethane foam, are made with different materials and candegrade and breakdown much more easily than polyethylene.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the stiffness andresilience of the corrugated product made using the instant inventioncan be modified depending on its desired use. For example, varying theratios of V₁, V₂ and V₃ allows for greater or lesser periodicity withrespect to the flutes of the corrugated substrate. If the ratio of V₃ toV₁ and V₂ is very high there will be an increased number of flutes perlineal foot of the corrugated product. However, if the ratio is low,there will be a decreased number of flutes per lineal foot of thecorrugated product. Further, those of skill in the art will appreciatethat while V₁ and V₂ may be the same, it may be desirable to have V₁ orV₂ faster (or slower) than the other. See, for example FIGS. 4 and 7.Such cases may arise when it is desirable to have non-linear outputcorrugation.

In addition, varying the space between the substrates allows furtheroptimization of the corrugated product. If the space S₁ between theupper and lower substrate is large, the flutes will be large and thecorrugated product will have greater elasticity and less stiffness.Conversely, if the space S₁ is small the corrugated product will be morestiff and have less elasticity.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the invention where V₁ and V₂ aredifferent. As shown, in this embodiment, a separate upper drive rollerpair 62 and lower drive roller pair 64 are added to apparatus 10 priorto feeding the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34 into separate upperand lower forms 56 and 58. By having separate drive rollers 62 and 64driving substrates 32 and 34 prior to attaching of the flutes of themiddle substrate 22 to the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34, V₁ andV₂ can differ and the corrugation achieved thereby can be tailored bychanging the ratios of V₁ to V₂ as well as V₃ as shown in FIG. 4.Depending on the difference between V₁ and V₂, the corrugation may becurved or wavy and therefore will not slide through a straight form.Thus, advantageously, the invention provides for a curved corrugation toemerge from the form in a tailored manner.

In addition, when foam is used to make the corrugated product, an outerside of the foam may often be cured so has to provide a hard shell ofthe outside of the corrugated product. Thus, when the instant inventionis used to make corrugated containers, the inside of the container maybe foam-like while the outside of the container can have a hard shell.

In other embodiments, the corrugated product according to the inventioncan be used to make furniture. In these instances, depending on the typeof substrate used, the ratio of V₁/V₂ to V₃ and the distance S₁ thestrength, plasticity, resiliency and rigidity of the corrugated productcan be tailored.

Other methods of optimizing and/or tailoring the apparatus 10 arecontemplated. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, corrugating apparatus 10may be simplified to omit form guide 30 (shown in FIG. 1) and insteaduse form rollers 66. In this embodiment, a form guide 30 is not neededas the rollers direct the middle substrate 22 directly to the uppersubstrate 32 and the lower substrate 34. As with the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, V₃, isgreater than V₁ and V₂ and V₁ and V₂ are equal. Also shown are heaters48. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, the increasedvelocity of V₃ compared to V₁ and V₂ will result in middle substrate 22being alternately and automatically directed to the alternatingsubstrate 32 or 34 due to its recoil from contact with the substrate towhich it is bonded by heaters 48. Further, the use of form rollers 66makes the apparatus 10 simpler providing for easier adjustment ofapparatus 10.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of theinvention which has neither a form guide 30 nor a feed guide 20 as shownin FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 6, drive roller 42 feeds substrate 22directly to form rollers 68. As with the other embodiments of theinvention, the periodicity of flutes 24 depends on the ratio of thevelocities of V₁ and V₂ to V₃.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing one exemplary embodiment of theinvention used for making a modified double-walled corrugated product18. In this embodiment, the corrugating apparatus 10 provides a inner,single walled corrugated product 16 sandwiched in between an upper orfourth substrate 78 and lower or fifth substrate 80. As with theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, single walled corrugated product 16 isprepared by providing an upper substrate 32, a lower substrate 34 and amiddle substrate 22 in which the velocities V₁ and V₂ are not equal. Inthe embodiment shown in FIG. 7, velocities V₁ and V₂ alternate withrespect to their magnitudes with each other. Thus, for example, when V₁is greater than V₂, product 16 will be forced downward while when V₂ isgreater than V₁, product 16 will be forced upward. In this embodimentthe fourth substrate 78 is propelled by drive rollers (not shown) whichpropel fourth substrate 78 at velocity V₄. Similarly, fifth substrate 80is also propelled by drive rollers (not shown) at a velocity V₅.

In the embodiment shown, V₄ and V₅ are equal. However, those of skill inthe art will appreciate that V₄ and V₅ may not be equal in which casedouble walled corrugated product 18 will curve depending on thedifference in the velocities of V₄ to V₅. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 7, single walled corrugated product 16 is made using drive rollers42 for the middle substrate 34 and upper drive roller pair 62 and lowerdrive roller pair 64 which propel the upper 32 and lower substrate 34through upper 56 and lower 58 form feeders respectively and around guiderollers 76. Similarly, fourth substrate 78 and fifth substrate 80 arepropelled around guide rollers 86. In addition, in the embodiment shown,upper and lower bonding elements 84 and 82 placed at the location on thefourth 78 and fifth 80 substrate where single walled product 16 contactsthe apparatus, thus sealing the single walled corrugated product 16alternately to the fourth 78 and fifth 80 substrates. Of course, thoseof skill in the art will appreciate that the bonding elements 78 and 80can use any desirable method of bonding the single walled product 16 tothe fourth 78 and fifth 80 apparatus such as, for example, heatingelements, adhesive application, spot welding or the like.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram representing another exemplary embodimentof the corrugating apparatus 10 according to the invention to make asecond modified type of double corrugated product 14. In thisembodiment, a single walled corrugated product is made essentially asdescribed previously. However, as with the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3, once the single walled product exits form guides 30, it ispropelled by upper and lower drive rollers 46 and 47 forming a pairwhich propel product 16 through a path to contact fourth substrate 78.As shown in FIG. 8, fourth substrate 78 follows a path around guideroller 86 and through drive rollers 88 which propel substrate 78 at avelocity V₄. Exiting drive rollers 88, substrate 78 is fed into a feedguide 90 at a trajectory to contact double walled product 16 where it isbonded to the upper surface of the product by a bonding element 92represented in FIG. 8 as a heating element. As illustrated, upon contactwith the upper substrate 32 of the single walled product 16, the fourthsubstrate 78 rebounds to impinge on form guide 94 situated at adesirable distance from upper substrate 32 to provide a desired size andperiodicity to provide a single face corrugated surface on top ofproduct 16 to yield product 14.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the single face portion formedby substrate 78 can be a different material depending on the desireduse. For example, in the case of cushioning for furniture or a cribmattress, the top fluted layer would be thinner and easier to compress.Its function would be to provide a softer cushion closer to the surfaceof the article. When used for a mattress, the single walled layer 16 canbe used to cushion the upper layer or can be used to add structuralstrength, or both.

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of theinvention adapted to produce only the corrugated middle substrate 102.In this embodiment, middle layer 102 is fed into drive rollers 104propelling substrate 102 at velocity V₃ through feed guide 106 whereuponthe trajectory of substrate 102 results in substrate 102 contactingeither the upper or lower portions of form guide 110. As shown, heaters108 are situated to heat that portion of the substrate 102 that contactsitself when the flute 24 is formed. The trajectory of substrate 102 isalternately directed to the upper or lower portion of the form guide 110by the recoil of the substrate 102 as it alternately rebounds from theupper or lower portions of form guide 110. Also illustrated, the flutedsubstrate 102 is then propelled by a second set of drive rollers 112 toproceed for finishing as desired. FIG. 9B is an inset of FIG. 9Aillustrating the fluted substrate 102 formed by bonding the flutes 24 tothemselves instead of to an upper and/or lower substrate such aslinerboard used in conventional cardboard corrugation techniques.

It should be appreciated that the embodiments of the present inventiondisclosed in the preceding discussion and FIGS. 1-9 can be combined indifferent manners as needed. For example, while FIG. 8 illustrates asingle wall corrugated product 16 with a single face corrugated productformed on one side, the product 14 could be fabricated to have a singleface corrugated product on both sides of product 16. Further, in such adesign the size of the single face on an upper and lower sides ofproduct 16 may have different sizes and have different periodicity.Further, throughout the different embodiments of the invention describedhere, each substrate of the corrugated product may be made fromdifferent media depending on the desired uses of the corrugated product.In this embodiment, by forcing the substrate 102 through from 110 at amuch faster rate, resulting in a higher input/output speed ration, thecrests of the wave (flutes 24) will start to compact on each other untilthey are touching. The crest of each flute is then bonded to each otherat its point of contact as illustrated by heaters 108 (or to othersuitable methods such as adhesives) at the point of contact.

The ability to tailor the size, stiffness, thickness and resiliency ofthe corrugated product made by the instant invention makes it ideal foruse in making furniture. In some embodiments the invention comprises thecushioning elements of furniture. For example, often metal and/or woodsupports are included in the article to provide strength and support forthe individual's needs, such as in an upright or prone position.However, the use of metal in particular, adds to the weight of thearticle. Often metal components do not always flex to accommodate theindividual and can be a source of discomfort after a period of time. Forexample, bed springs can often be a source of pressure points for anindividual and diminishes the therapeutic, restorative and rejuvenatingeffects of sleep.

Additionally, most furniture articles are manufactured with polymericmaterials that can be a source of environmental concern, especially toinfants. For example, there are various mattress constructions that usematerials that, by themselves or due to some material impurities, cancause or aggravate human allergenic reactions and/or can result in otherpotentially harmful exposures. For instance, materials that incorporatepolyurethanes, polyvinyl chlorides, polystyrenes, or polycarbonates allcontain volatiles and/or water soluble chemicals that are potentiallyharmful to human health, safety, and the environment.

The articles of furniture, such as mattresses, described herein can usepolyethylene foam with densities from about 1.2 lbs per cubic foot toabout 3.0 lbs per cubic foot. A combination of densities can be used.For example, a material made of 1.2 lbs per cubic foot can be used forthe corrugated product, and a material made of 1.7 lbs per cubic footfor the upper and lower substrates in order to give the outer surfacesmore rigidity and uniformity.

These low density substrates result in less material used, lower costs,and lighter weight. For example, the finished corrugated product of aninfant mattress weighs about 3 lbs, whereas a comparable innerspringweighs 10-12 lbs.

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) sets standards for plasticresins used in food packaging to be of greater purity than plastics usedfor non-food packaging. This is commonly referred to as food gradeplastic. Food grade plastics do not contain dyes or recycled plasticdeemed harmful to humans.

It has been found that articles of furniture made from food grade lowdensity polyethylene (LDPE) or polylactic acid (PLA) and its copolymersor homopolymers that meet FDA standards offer a very low level oftoxicity and can eliminate or reduce adverse human allergenic reactionsor other potentially harmful exposures due to the construction materialsor their impurities. Even when food grade LDPE or PLA is used for foodcontainers, it is not known to leach any water soluble chemicals thatare suspected of causing adverse human allergenic reaction or otherpotentially harmful exposures.

It is also within the scope of the present invention to use starchsourced Bio-Polymer, Polylactic Acid, or other bio-polymer films andlaminates to maximize the renewable and recyclable materials content.

It is also within the scope of the present invention to construct anarticle of furniture using organically grown cotton batting, in order toeliminate any possible agricultural pesticide or chemical fertilizercontamination. This cotton batting can be treated with an ozone or othersanitizing process to clean, oxidize, and to remove other possiblecontaminant volatiles.

The invention will be further described with reference to the followingnon-limiting Examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the artthat many changes can be made in the embodiments described withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. Thus the scope of thepresent invention should not be limited to the embodiments described inthis application, but only by embodiments described by the language ofthe claims and the equivalents of those embodiments. Unless otherwiseindicated, all percentages are by weight.

FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 are CAD renderings of one exemplary embodiment ofthe corrugation apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1-9. FIG. 10 is aperspective view of the apparatus 10 showing the placement of the upper32, middle 22 and lower 34 substrates as they are fed into thecorrugation apparatus and the single wall corrugation product 16 exitingapparatus 10. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the embodiment of theapparatus shown in FIG. 10 but with one wall of the apparatus 10 removedto show the inner rollers. Illustrated are the middle substrate 22 guideroller 26 which guide middle substrate 22 into the drive rollers 42.Upper substrate 32 is passes over guide roller 36 and lower substrate 34passer under lower guide roller 38. Also shown, after passing underguide roller 26, middle substrate 22 then passes through drive rollerpair 42 while the upper and lower substrates 32 and 34 pass through formrollers 66. Upon corrugation, the single wall product 16 then passesthrough drive rollers 46, pulling product 16 through corrugationapparatus 10. FIG. 12 is a close-up perspective view of the interior ofthe embodiment of the corrugation apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 10and 11. In this view, middle substrate 26 is shown passing under guideroller 26 and passing between drive roller pair 42 to be fed at velocityV₃ into the apparatus. As shown, heaters 48 are arranged above and belowfeed guide 20 so as to heat the middle 22 and upper substrate 32 andmiddle 22 and lower substrate 34 when they impact each other at formrollers 66. Upon bonding of the middle substrate 22 to the uppersubstrate 32 and middle substrate 22 to the lower substrate 34 thesingle wall corrugated product exits from form rollers 66 and passesbetween drive rollers 46 which pulls the bonded product 16 throughcorrugation apparatus 10.

In one exemplary embodiment, the corrugated products, such as 16, 14 and18 (FIGS. 1, 8 and 7, respectively) are constructed of a food gradepolymer, food grade polylactic acid, or a food grade low densitypolyethylene (LDPE) according to FDA guidelines 21 CFR177.

Still further according to the present invention, the polyethylene filmhas a density of 0.85 to 1.00 grams per cubic centimeter; a maximumextractable fraction (expressed as percent by weight of the polymer) inN-hexane at specified temperatures is 5.5% at 50° C.); and a maximumextractable fraction (expressed as percent by weight of the polymer) inxylene at specified temperatures is 11.3% at 25° C.

Example 1 Mattress Fabrication

In various embodiments, the invention comprises a mattress. In theseembodiments, the mattress comprises an inner corrugated foam core, amiddle cushioning layer and an outer cover layer. In these embodiments,the corrugated foam core can be made as previously described for FIGS.1, 2 and 3. The middle cushioning layer may comprise a second corrugatedfoam product, a cotton batting layer, densified polyester or foam suchas polyurethane, polyester, polypropylene or polylactic acid and thelike. The outer cover layer may comprise cotton or a laminated foamwherein the foam comprises, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester,polypropylene or polylactic acid and the like and the laminate comprisesa film independently selected from polyurethane, polyethylene,polyester, polypropylene or polylactic acid and the like. In addition,in various embodiments, the mattress may comprise a flame retardantlayer between the middle cushioning layer and the outer cover layer.However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that in variousembodiments a flame retardant may not be necessary such as, for example,when the materials themselves are not flammable, such as with polyester,or because a flame retardant is added to one of the other layers. Inthese embodiments, the flame retardant can be added to the outer coverlayer or the middle cushioning layer. For example, if cotton batting isused for the middle cushioning layer, boric acid (generally 15%) orother retardant can be mixed into the cotton and no other flameretardant is necessary. In various exemplary embodiments, the inner foamcore shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, is a corrugated product 16 as describedherein and utilizes one or more of the above-identified polymers. Thecorrugated product 16 can include an upper substrate 32, lower substrate34 and a fluted middle substrate 22 as described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of a mattress 220 made according tothe instant invention. As shown, the core of the mattress includes asingle wall corrugated product as shown at 16 in FIGS. 1 and 10-12. Asshown in FIG. 13 a middle substrate 222 an upper substrate 224 and alower substrate 226 are cut to a desired size. In various embodiments,an overhang, or open perimeter of upper and lower substrates 224/226remains and side perimeter piece 228 and end perimeter piece 230 areadded and sealed to both sides and ends of the mattress providingsupport for the edges of the mattress. In various embodiments, those ofskill in the art will appreciate that perimeter pieces are not requiredfor the foam mattress 220. Next a layer of cushioning material 232, suchas cotton, densified polyester or polypropylene 244 is wrapped aroundthe corrugated foam core 238 followed by a flame barrier 234. Next asurface layer or cover 236 is added. In some embodiments, the coverlayer is a woven cotton fabric, polyester or polypropylene while in someembodiments the woven cotton layer polyester or polypropylene is coatedwith a low density polyethylene that may be food grade (See, forexample, 21 CFR 177.1520). However, those of skill in the art willappreciate that the cover layer can be any comfortable fiber or polymercover. In some embodiments the cover can be a thin foam with a filmlaminated to it. In various embodiments the film can be polyethylene,polypropylene, polyurethane or the like. It will be appreciated thatusing the disclosed methods a mattress or cushion of any desirable sizecan be made.

FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of a mattress 240 according tothe invention. In this embodiment, the mattress 240 includes a singlewall corrugated product 238 such as that illustrate in FIG. 13. In thisembodiment the single wall corrugated product includes a top substrate224, a middle substrate 222 and a bottom substrate 226. The first singlewall product 238 can be finished with two end perimeter pieces (notshown) and two side perimeter pieces 228 bonded to the sides and ends ofthe corrugated product. In addition to closing the interior of themattress, the side pieces act to provide support for the edges of themattress. In mattress embodiment 240 there is also a second single wallproduct 258 fixed to the first single wall product. Included are a topsubstrate 244, middle substrate, 242 and bottom substrate 246. Inaddition, in this embodiment, there are two sider perimeter pieces 248and two end perimeter pieces (not shown). In this embodiment of themattress 240, the middle substrate 242 and optionally the top 244 andbottom 246 substrates may be made of a thinner foam so as to provide amore resilient upper layer providing more cushioned for the mattressuser. In addition, the second single-wall corrugation product 258 iseasily fixed to the first single wall corrugation product 238 by heatingthe opposing substrates (e.g., 224 and 246) before they are stacked suchthat they are bonded to each other. After the first corrugated product238 and second corrugated product 258 may be bonded together thecompound product is then wrapped in a cover 252.

In various embodiments, mattress cover 236 and 252 comprises a layer ofcotton or thin foam with polymer film laminated to it. For example, whenthe mattress cover 236/252 is foam the foam may be 1/32-⅛ inch composedof polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene or polylacticacid. In these embodiments, the polymer film can be independentlyselected from polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene orpolylactic acid. In addition, while in some embodiments the cover mayenvelop the mattress so as to contain it on all sides and have an openend to accept insertion of the mattress. In other embodiments, the covermay only cover the top portion of the mattress and be bonded to thesides of the first corrugated product so as to cover the underlyingcushioning layer or second corrugated product. Those of skill in the artwill appreciate that the cushioning layer, e.g., the second corrugatedproduct does not need to be bonded to the first corrugated product whenthe cover is used. For example, when the cover is bonded to the sides ofthe first corrugated product, such as for example by heat sealing thecover to the sides or by adhesives, the cover will hold the cushioninglayer in place. Similarly, when the cover encases the mattress, like forexample, a pillow case, the cover is stretched over the mattress andholds the component pieces together, thereby simplifying construction ofthe mattress. In some embodiments, the open end of the cover may besealed. Of course, those of skill in the art will appreciate that thecover can be used in those embodiments of the mattress where thecushioning layer is not a second corrugated product. For example, thecover is equally useful when the cushioning layer comprises cotton,densified polyester or polypropylene cushioning.

In addition, while mattress 240 is “one-sided” e.g., it has only thesecond single wall product 258 attached to one of the surfaces of thefirst single wall product 238, it is contemplated that the mattresscould be one sided with a second single wall cushion product bonded tothe other side of product 238. Further, those of skill in the art willappreciate that, while the embodiment of mattress 240 shown comprisestwo separate single wall products 238 and 258 bonded to each other, themattress could comprise a hybrid product 14 as shown in FIG. 8 with afurther foam piece or substrate bonded to fourth substrate 78. Those ofskill in the art will appreciate that mattress 240 can be any sizemattress ranging from a crib mattress for babies to any desired size.Further, those of skill in the art will appreciate that, while FIGS. 13and 14 illustrate the flutes of the corrugation layer aligned with thelong axis of the mattress, in some embodiments according to theinvention, the corrugated layer may be arranged such that the flutes arealigned with the short axis of the mattress.

Also, according to the present invention, the outer layer of the articleof furniture can be heat fused to a non-toxic substrate within thearticle so as to provide improved tensile strength and tear resistanceto the outer layer of the article. The non-toxic fabric substrate can beconstructed of materials including cotton, polyester, polypropylene andothers or combinations thereof.

The innermost component of the article of furniture is constructed of acorrugated, polymeric support system that gives the article necessarystrength, maintains the desired shape of the article, provides themajority of the cushioning requirements and provides the required weightsupport.

The corrugated support system includes an upper layer, wherein the upperlayer has a length, a width and a thickness; an optional lower layer,wherein the lower layer has a length, a width and a thickness; and amiddle, fluted layer placed between the upper and lower layer. Thefluted layer has a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the flutedlayer is affixed to the upper and lower layers at contact points of thefluted layer with the upper and lower layers. In general, polymericmedia comprising the upper layer, lower layer and middle layer is heatedto a softening and passed through a series of rollers to effect thecorrugated shape. Cooling of the polymer provides the final corrugatedarticle.

Example 2 Use of Plastic Stock for the Fabrication of Corrugated Plastic

FIG. 15 illustrates a panel 300 made of corrugated plastic. As shown thepanel 300 includes upper substrate 332, lower substrate 334 and middlesubstrate 322. FIG. 16 illustrates a plastic panel 300 such as thatshown in FIG. 15 but with a printed surface 336. Using the disclosedtechnique, printed substrates such as 336 can be pre-made prior to thecorrugation process. FIG. 17 illustrates a plastic panel such as thatshown in FIGS. 15 and 16 showing some usable dimensions for thisembodiment. Plastic substrates such as those represented at 332, 334 and322 are commercially available such as from, for example, BlueridgeFilms, Inc. (http://www.blueridgefilms.com/). In these embodiments thebonding of the flutes to the upper and lower substrate is achieved byultrasonic welding.

Example 3 Use of Metal Roll Stock for the Fabrication of CorrugatedSteel

In some embodiments, according to the invention, as shown in FIG. 18, acorrugated steel panel 400 can be made using steel roll stock for one ormore of the substrates 432, 434, 422. In this embodiment, the roll stockcan be any of those commercially available. FIG. 19 illustrates someusable dimensions for the corrugated steel panel 400. In theseembodiments the bonding of the flutes to the upper and lower substrateis achieved by ultrasonic welding.

Example 4 Fabrication of Molded Furniture

FIGS. 20 and 21 represent various exemplary embodiments of furniturethat can be constructed according to the present invention. FIG. 20 is acut-away of a stylized chair 260 that can be constructed using thepresent invention and showing the interior flutes of the middlesubstrate. As shown the chair can be constructed by varying the ratio ofV₁ to V₂ in real time. In the embodiment of the chair 260 shown, aperimeter or overhang of the upper and lower substrate with respect tothe middle substrate is provided such that edge pieces 262 can beinserted to seal the chair. FIG. 21 illustrates a bookshelf 270 madeusing the corrugated products of the invention according to anotherexemplary embodiment. In the embodiment shown, six planar, single wallcorrugated pieces are assembled as shown to comprise two side pieces,two shelves and a top and a bottom to the bookshelf. Additionally, aback piece is provided in the book case which is optional and can be acorrugated product if desired or may just be an individual piece ofsubstrate. In this embodiment, the corrugated products are produced witha “wood-grain” finish comprising a pre-printed-wood grain by the processused in FIG. 15. In this embodiment a standard wood veneer is glued tothe outer surface of the corrugated product. Such veneers arecommercially available, such as from, for example, WiseWood Veneer,(http://www.wisewoodveneer.com/index.html). Those of skill in the artwill appreciate that when fabricating furniture according to the instantinvention, different substrates can be used as desired. For example,chair 260 may have a stiff plastic, load-bearing plastic as the lowersubstrate while a soft foam may be desirable as the upper substrate. Themiddle substrate can be varied according to the stiffness of the cushiondesired by the user. Of course, those of skill will appreciate that thesubstrates may all be the same, such as for instance load-bearingplastic and a foam of cushion piece may be applied to the upper surfaceof chair 260 if desired. In addition, while the foam pieces aregenerally available from the manufacturer in white, foam pieces can bedyed to any desirable color.

FIG. 22 illustrates partition panels according to one embodiment of theinvention. In this embodiment, the partitions, such as those used formaking office “cubicles” can be made using any desirable material forthe upper, middle and lower substrates and can provide any desirablefinish. For example, for interior office spaces, it may be desirable tohave an outer surface that is hard and durable such as a stiff plastic.The interior surface of the partition, the substrate can be made of adense, closed cell foam such that the user of the office cubicle can usepins or other fastening devices to attach paper or the like to thesubstrate surface. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for themiddle substrate to be a sound absorbing foam such that noise isabsorbed by the partition. In addition, the purchaser can choose to havethe outer surface printed with any desirable motif such as a wood grain,a soothing forest scene or the like. The partition panels 280 can be anydesirable size and can be set into a frame having alternating male andfemale flanges 282/284.

Example 5 Fabrication of Corrugated Columns

FIG. 23 illustrates a column made of single wall corrugated productaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, thecorrugated column is made by maintaining a constant ratio of V₁>V₂ (orV₂>V₁). Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the diameter ofthe column can be controlled simply by using a desired ratio of V1 toV2. For example, for a small diameter column, V1 would be much greaterthan V2 whereas a larger diameter column would require less differencebetween the two velocities. Similarly, an oblong column could bemanufactured by having V1=V2 symmetrically on either side of a curvedportion (e.g., V1>V2). Those of skill in the art will appreciate thatthe column can be any size and, as with other products can be composedof any substrate required. Thus, the column 290 can be fabricated offoam, plastic or metal and can be used to make the legs of a table whenattached to a planar corrugated product such as that shown for the wallpanel or the legs of a chair, etc. when attached to a product such as260 shown in FIG. 20. Similarly, the column can be used for a structuralcomponent when fabricated with a metal roll stock and used as a buildingsupport. Further, when fabricated, the ends of the column can befastened together by leaving an overhang of the upper and lowersubstrates with respect to the middle substrate and joining the ends,such as by sonic welding to comprise a completely closed circularcolumn.

Example 6 Fabrication of Building Materials

In an another exemplary embodiment, shown in FIG. 24, the corrugationapparatus can be used for making building materials such as walls androofs (not shown) for houses. These building panels may be used forconstruction of wall having weight bearing capabilities. In thisembodiment the upper and lower substrates can be more robust, such as,for example, plastic, rolled metal stock such as copper or steel. Inaddition, the middle substrate can be any desirable substrate such assound absorbing foam, or plastic or metal. Generally, when used for wallpanels, the corrugated product of the invention is about 8′×14′ orlarger. The panels can be fitted together using any suitable means. Forexample, the panels can have complementary tracks comprising a maleflange similar to that shown in FIG. 22 or tongue and groove couplingthat can be secured together by any convenient device such as screws(not shown). Further conduits can be provided in the space defined bythe flutes such that the corrugated building panels do not need to bealtered to accept electricals and the like. Further, it should beappreciated that, while the building panels of the instant invention canbe substituted for conventional building components, such as ply-woodand/or 2×4's the building panels can also be formed to encompass thefinishing materials as well. Thus, the outer substrate of the corrugatedproduct may be cured and/or smooth such that the building panel alsoincorporates the smoothness and finishabilty of dry wall. In addition,it will be appreciated that the corrugated material could be eitherpolymer or cellulose-based or, mixtures of the two.

Example 7 Fabrication of Continuous Corrugated Columns

Another exemplary embodiment of the invention provides an a continuousspiral tube or column 390 that can be created using the described methodis a continuous tube that has corrugated walls. In this embodiment, ifV₁ and V₂ are constant but not equal, the output corrugation will form aconsistent curvature with constant radius as described for Example 5.However, in the embodiment of this Example, if the width of thecorrugation is narrow relative to its radius, and the material of thesubstrate has sufficient flexibility, the output corrugation can bedisplaced and twisted into a spiral as shown in FIGS. 25 and 26.Additionally, the orientation of the corrugation apparatus can beadjusted slightly in order to enable the natural tendency of the outputto form the spiral without damage to the integrity of the corrugatedproduct. According to one embodiment provided herein, if form rollers 40and feed guide 20 are rotated relative to each other, in the planeperpendicular to the direction of material travel, the output will havea natural twist in it. This twist will make it easier to form the curvedoutput into a spiral.

In various embodiments, the output spiral can be rotated around itscenter axis as the corrugation is being formed so that newly formedspiral is constantly added to and the tubular length grows indefinitely.

In some exemplary embodiments, as the spiral is being formed, bonding,such as, for example, by welding, adhesive or the like, can be appliedto the adjacent edges of the spiral, sealing the column or tube 390 asit grows. In these and various other exemplary embodiments, the bondingcan be made at the boundary between two adjoining edges of the spiral.Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the bonding can beadministered from the outside of the tube or the inside of the tube, orboth. In other exemplary embodiments, additional material or substrate(the same or different from that of the body of the spiral) can be addedoverlaying or underlying (or both) the juncture of the adjacent edges ofthe spiral increasing the strength of the bond.

One example of a bonding method would be to introduce a linear materialto bridge the adjacent edges together. As the tube spirals off of a rollit would be adhered using adhesive, heat, ultrasonic, etc. For example,a roll of adhesive tape could be applied continuously over the seam.

In one embodiment as shown in planar view FIG. 27, upper layer 32 orlower layer 34 can be secured to each other at seam 392 by material 391.By this method, the adjoining layers at seam 392 are abutted and bondedto each other to provide a continuous spiral. Material 391 can be, forexample but not limited to, an adhesive tape, an adhesive resin,chemical melting or adhesion of material onto seam 392, thermosetbonding, plasma activated bonding, heat welding, or mechanicalfasteners. For example, a strip of material 391, similar or identical toupper layer or lower layers 32 or 34 could be treated with a solvent tocause the material to become sticky so as to secure the layer(s) at seam392.

In another embodiment the middle substrate 22 can be provided such thatit is wider than the upper 32 and lower 34 substrates such that themiddle wavy section of the corrugation cantilever past the edges of theupper and lower substrates forming ridges 393 as shown in planar viewFIG. 28. For example, material 391, such as a roll of adhesive tape,could be applied continuously within the groove formed from adjacentabutted ridges 393 shown in planar view FIG. 29.

Alternatively, all three substrates could have equal width having themiddle substrate 22 off-set from the upper 32 and lower 34 substrates toprovide complementary ridge 393 and groove 394 as shown in planar viewFIG. 30. By this method, the ridge and groove fit together as the spiralcomes around 360 degrees to the starting point at seam 395 to providecontinuous spiral as shown in planar view FIG. 31. Bonding may not benecessary but could be accomplished for example but not limited to,material 391, as described above, adhesive resin, chemical melting,thermoset bonding, plasma activated bonding, heat welding, or mechanicalfasteners.

In another embodiment the middle substrate 22 could be narrower than theupper 32 and lower 34 substrates and then be positioned to one side(“left justify” or “right justify” the layers before corrugation) togive a flush edge 396 and a groove 394. Then as the spiral comes around360 degrees to the starting point, the flush edge 396 of the corrugationcan “nest” between groove 394 at seam 397 as shown in planar view FIG.32. FIG. 33 depicts a three-dimensional perspective of this embodiment.Bonding may not be necessary but could be accomplished as noted above,for example but not limited to, adhesive tape, adhesive resin, chemicalmelting, thermoset bonding, plasma activated bonding, heat welding, ormechanical fasteners.

There are many possible methods to impart a spiral configuration to thecorrugated product. One method is to angle the feed guide 20 relative tothe form guide 30 so they are no longer parallel, but tilted at an anglerelative to each other as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35.

Alternatively form guide 30 may be twisted. This will impart a slighthelical “twist” to the corrugation. That, in combination with thecircular output (V1>V2), forms a spiral. Another way to impart a twistis to use an apparatus as seen in FIG. 36, with form 30 which is used asa conduit for middle substrate 22 thus delaying the point of bondinguntil after several waves have been created. The shape of form 30 istwisted so that it would impart a helical shape to the middle substrate22 before bonding shown in FIG. 37. Then, when upper and lowersubstrates 32 and 34 are added, the corrugation already has a naturaltwist to it.

There are many applications for the described continuous tube 390. Oneexample is a long pipe used for transporting liquids. Such pipes mayeither be fabricated from concrete or metals such as steel and/or iron.Currently, pipes for this application are prefabricated out of solidsteel, plastic, or concrete. They are expensive to manufacture and theirweight and size make them difficult to transport to the site ofinstallation. The maximum possible length of each segment is alsolimited by transportation requirements (i.e. usually by truck flatbedlength which is around 50 feet). Spiral tube 390 would be many timeslighter than steel or concrete, and could be manufactured using mobileequipment on site to create much longer segments. The strength resultingfrom corrugation of the spiral results in a continuous tube or column390 having strength that matches existing materials, but in a much morelightweight material. Additionally, continuous tube 390 would be moreflexible than existing materials and therefore more resilient duringstresses from earthquakes, impacts, and installation.

In various embodiments, the spiral tube 390 can be used for structuralcolumns and supports, tubular ducts, pressurized tubes, protectivesleeves, and can be used for most applications that require cylindricaland structurally strong components.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, one of the majoradvantages of this embodiment is the ability to create very long tubesout of narrow width input material. The apparatus required to processthese narrow widths becomes less expensive and easier to design andoperate as the input width decreases. This is in contrast to the tubeshown in FIG. 23 which is limited in length to the width of the inputmaterial.

The following paragraphs enumerated consecutively from 1 through 90provide for various aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment,in a first paragraph (1), the present invention provides:

1. A method to prepare a corrugated product, comprising the steps of:providing an upper and a lower substrate at a rate of V₁ and V₂ whereinthe upper and lower substrates are maintained at a distance S₁ from eachother; and providing a middle substrate, interposed between the uppersubstrate and the lower substrate, at a rate of V₃, at a trajectory toimpact the upper or lower substrates, wherein the rate V₃ is greaterthan the rates of V₁, and V₂ such that the middle substrate forms flutesalternately contacting the upper and lower substrates; wherein acorrugated product is formed.

2. The method of paragraph 1, wherein the distance S1 is delimited by aform guide.

3. The method of paragraph 2, wherein the form guide comprises an upperand a lower surface.

4. The method of paragraph 3, wherein the upper and lower surfacecomprises plates or rollers.

5. The method of paragraphs 1-4, wherein the middle substrate isdirected between the upper substrate and the lower substrate by a feedguide.

6. The method of either of paragraphs 1 through 5 further comprisingdrive rollers positioned prior to the feed guide to drive the middlesubstrate.

7. The method of any of paragraphs 1 through 6, further comprising asecond set of drive rollers after the form guide to pull the corrugatedproduct through the apparatus.

8. The method of any of paragraphs 1 through 7, further comprisingattaching the flutes of the middle substrate to the upper and lowersubstrates.

9. The method of paragraph 8, wherein the flutes of the middle substrateare attached via an adhesive, a solvent suitable to partially dissolvethe substrates, infrared heat, heat, laser welding or ultrasonicwelding.

10. The method of any of paragraphs 1 through 9, wherein V₁ and V₂ areequal.

11. The method of paragraphs 1 through 10, wherein the substrates areindependently selected from poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA),polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide (PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide,L-lactide, D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

12. The method of any of paragraphs 1 through 8, wherein the upper,lower and middle substrates comprise polyethylene.

13. The method of paragraph 8, wherein the polyethylene is closed celllow density polyethylene foam.

14. The method of paragraphs 1 through 13, wherein the polyethylene isfood grade polyethylene.

15. An apparatus to prepare a corrugated product, comprising:

a first pair of drive rollers actuated to drive a middle at a velocityV₃; a form guide positioned after the drive rollers; wherein the formguide provides an upper surface to guide an upper substrate and a lowersurface to guide a lower substrate; a second pair of drive rollersactuated to have a velocity V₁; wherein V₃ is greater than V₁; a bondingdevice positioned about the upper surface and the lower surface of theform guide, wherein the bonding device attaches the middle substrate tothe upper and lower substrates; wherein a corrugated product isprepared.

16. The apparatus of paragraph 15, wherein the form guide is a set ofsubstantially parallel plates, parallel rollers or a combinationthereof.

17. The apparatus of paragraphs 15 through 16, wherein a feed guide ispositioned after the first pair of drive rollers and comprises twoplates separated by a distance that can be varied to accept the middlesubstrate.

18. The apparatus of any of paragraphs 15 through 17, wherein thebonding device is a heater, a solvent, a sonic welder, a laser welder oran adhesive bonding the flutes of the middle substrate with the upperand lower substrates.

19. The apparatus of any of paragraphs 15 through 18, further comprisinga cutting apparatus.

20. The apparatus of paragraphs 15 through 19, further comprising one ormore guide rollers to guide the upper substrate into the form guide andthe lower substrate into the form guide.

21. The apparatus of paragraphs 15-20, wherein the second pair of driverollers is situated in the apparatus after the corrugated product exitsthe form guide.

22. The apparatus of paragraphs 15-20, wherein the second pair of driverollers is located before the form guide and drives only the uppersubstrate at a velocity V₁.

23. The apparatus of paragraphs 15-20, and 22 wherein a third set ofdrive rollers is located before the form guide and drives only the lowersubstrate at a velocity V₂.

24. The apparatus of paragraphs 15 through 23 wherein the drive rollersare actuated separately.

25. The apparatus of paragraphs 15 through 23 wherein the drive rollersare actuated together.

26. An apparatus to prepare a corrugated article, comprising:

a first pair of drive rollers to feed a middle substrate at a rate V₃through the feed guide;

a form guide, positioned after the first pair of drive rollers andcomprising an upper and a lower surface separated by a distance S₁,wherein the form guide accepts an upper substrate on its upper surfaceand a lower substrate on its lower surface;

a bonding device positioned about the upper surface and the lowersurface of the form guide, wherein the bonding device attaches flutes ofthe middle substrate to the upper and lower substrates to provide acorrugated product;

a second pair of drive rollers positioned after the form guide and pullsthe corrugated product through the apparatus;

wherein a corrugated article is produced.

27. The apparatus of paragraph 26, wherein the form guide is a set ofsubstantially parallel plates, parallel rollers or combinations thereof.

28. The apparatus of paragraphs 26 through 27, further including a feedguide, wherein the feed guide is two plates separated by a distance thatcan be varied to accept the middle substrate.

29. The apparatus of any of paragraphs 26 through 28, wherein thebonding device is a heater, a sonic welder, a laser welder or anadhesive bonding the flutes of the middle substrate with the upper andlower substrates.

30. The apparatus of any of paragraphs 26 through 29, further comprisinga cutting apparatus.

31. A method of making a corrugated product comprising:

(a) providing an upper substrate and a lower substrate, the uppersubstrate moving at a velocity V₁ and the lower substrate moving at avelocity V₂, the upper substrate and the lower substrate beingessentially parallel to each other and separated by a distance ‘S₁’;

(b) providing a middle substrate, the middle substrate situated betweenthe upper substrate and the lower substrate and moving at a velocity V₃,wherein V₃ is greater than V₁ or V₂;

(c) propelling the middle substrate at a trajectory to contact the uppersubstrate or the lower substrate, wherein upon contact with the uppersubstrate or the lower substrate, the middle substrate rebounds in anopposite direction to contact the opposing substrate, wherein, uponcontact with the opposing substrate, the middle substrate rebounds tocontact the other substrate; and

(d) attaching the point of contact of the middle substrate with theupper substrate and the lower substrate such that the middle substrateforms flutes between the upper substrate and the lower substrate;

wherein a corrugated product is provided.

32. The method of paragraph 31, wherein V₁ and V₂ are equal.

33. The method of paragraph 31, wherein V₁ and V₂ are not equal.

34. The method of paragraphs 31 through 33, wherein the first, secondand third substrates independently comprise:

polyethylene derivatives, polylactic acid derivatives, cellulosederivatives, silicon and silicon-based polymers and methacrylates.

35. The method of paragraphs 31 through 34, wherein the first, secondand third substrates independently comprise:

poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

36. The method of paragraphs 31 through 35, wherein the polyethylene isclosed cell low density polyethylene foam.

37. The method of paragraphs 31 through 36, wherein the upper, lower andmiddle substrates are independently selected from: a food grade polymer,food grade polylactic acid or a food grade low density polyethylene(LDPE) according to FDA regulations.

38. The method of paragraphs 24 through 30, wherein attaching isaccomplished using an adhesive, a solvent suitable to partially dissolvethe substrates, infrared heat, heat, laser or ultrasonic welding.

39. A corrugated mattress comprising: a first corrugated product, thefirst corrugated product including:

an upper substrate;

a middle substrate; and

a lower substrate;

wherein the middle substrate is fluted and the flutes are fixed to theupper and lower substrates to form a single wall corrugated foammattress.

40. The corrugated mattress of paragraphs 39, further comprising a nextlayer of cotton, densified polyester or polypropylene covering thecorrugated foam product.

41. The corrugated mattress of paragraphs 39 through 40, wherein a flamebarrier covers the cotton polyester or polypropylene covering.

42. The corrugated mattress of paragraphs 39 through 41, furthercomprising a surface layer.

43. The corrugated mattress of paragraphs 39 through 42, wherein theupper, middle and lower substrates independently comprise:

polyethylene derivatives, polylactic acid derivatives, cellulosederivatives, silicon and silicon-based polymers and methacrylates.

44. The corrugated mattress of paragraphs 39 through 43, wherein theupper, middle and lower substrates independently comprise:

poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

45. The mattress of paragraphs 39 through 44, wherein the polyethyleneis closed cell low density polyethylene foam.

46. The mattress of paragraphs 39 through 45, wherein the upper, lowerand middle substrates are independently selected from: a food gradepolymer, food grade polylactic acid, or a food grade low densitypolyethylene (LDPE) according to FDA guidelines.

47. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 46, further comprisinga second corrugated product adhered to the upper or lower substratewherein the second corrugated product comprises a second uppersubstrate, a second lower substrate and a second middle substratecorrugated between the second upper and lower substrates and two sideperimeter pieces and two end perimeter pieces.

48. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 47, wherein the secondcorrugated product is adhered to the first corrugated product using heator adhesive.

49. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 48, wherein the secondcorrugated product is made from substrates that are thinner and moreresilient than providing a more cushion-like feel than the substratesused to make the first corrugated product.

50. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 49, wherein the secondupper, second middle and second lower substrates independently comprise:

polyethylene derivatives, polylactic acid derivatives, cellulosederivatives, silicon and silicon-based polymers and methacrylates.

51. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 50, wherein the secondupper, second middle and second lower substrates independently comprise:poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D, L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

52. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 51, wherein thepolyethylene is closed cell low density polyethylene foam.

53. The mattress of paragraphs 39 and 43 through 52, wherein the secondupper, second lower and second middle substrates are independentlyselected from: a food grade polymer, food grade polylactic acid, or afood grade low density polyethylene (LDPE) according to FDA guidelines.

54. The mattress of paragraphs 39 through 53 further comprising: twoside perimeter pieces; and two end perimeter pieces wherein the two sidepieces are fixed to the sides of the corrugated foam product and the twoend pieces are fixed to the ends of the foam product to enclose theinterior of the mattress.

55. A method of making a foam mattress comprising a first corrugatedproduct including:

preparing a single wall foam corrugated product having an uppersubstrate, a middle substrate and a lower substrate, wherein the middlesubstrate is fluted and the flutes of the middle substrate are attachedto the upper and lower substrates to make a foam mattress.

56. The method of paragraph 55 further including attaching foamperimeter pieces around the outside of foam mattress.

57. The method of paragraph 55 further comprising wrapping the enclosedcorrugated product with a layer of cotton, densified polyester orpolypropylene.

58. The method of paragraphs 55 through 57 further including a flamebarrier on top of the cotton, densified polyester or polypropylenelayer.

59. The method of paragraphs 55 through 58, further including an outerlayer on top of the flame barrier.

60. The method of paragraphs 55 through 59, wherein the upper, middleand lower substrates independently comprise:

polyethylene derivatives, polylactic acid derivatives, cellulosederivatives, silicon and silicon-based polymers and methacrylates.

61. The method of paragraphs 55 through 60, wherein the upper, middleand lower substrates independently comprise:

poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

62. The method of paragraph 55 through 61, wherein the polyethylene isclosed cell low density polyethylene foam.

63. The method of paragraphs 55 through 62, wherein the upper, lower andmiddle substrates are independently selected from: a food grade polymer,food grade polylactic acid, or a food grade low density polyethylene(LDPE) according to FDA guidelines.

64. The method of paragraphs 55 through 63, wherein attaching isaccomplished using an adhesive, a solvent suitable to partially dissolvethe substrates, infrared heat, heat, laser or ultrasonic welding.

65. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 64, further comprisinga second corrugated product adhered to the upper or lower substratewherein the second corrugated product comprises a second uppersubstrate, a second lower substrate and a second middle substratecorrugated between the second upper and lower substrates and two sideperimeter pieces and two end perimeter pieces.

66. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 65, wherein the secondcorrugated product is adhered to the first corrugated product using heator adhesive.

67. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 66, wherein the secondcorrugated product is made from substrates that are thinner and moreresilient than providing a more cushion-like feel than the substratesused to make the first corrugated product.

68. the mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 67, wherein the secondupper, second middle and second lower substrates independently comprise:

polyethylene derivatives, polylactic acid derivatives, cellulosederivatives, silicon and silicon-based polymers and methacrylates.

69. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 68, wherein the secondupper, second middle and second lower substrates independently comprise:

poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

70. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 69 wherein thepolyethylene is closed cell low density polyethylene foam.

71. The mattress of paragraphs 55 and 58 through 70, wherein the secondupper, second lower and second middle substrates are independentlyselected from: Polylactic Acid which has been FDA as a Food GradePolymer or a Food Grade low density polyethylene (LDPE) that meets FDAguidelines.

72. A mattress cover, the mattress cover comprising a laminated foamcovering at least one surface of the mattress.

73. The mattress cover of paragraph 72, wherein the foam comprises,polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene or polylactic acid.

74. The mattress cover of paragraphs 72 through 73, wherein the foam isabout 1/32 to ⅛ inch thick.

75. The mattress cover of paragraphs 72 through 74, wherein the laminateis a film of polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene orpolylactic acid.

76. The mattress cover of paragraphs 72 through 75, wherein the cover isbonded to the sides of the mattress.

77. The mattress cover of paragraphs 72 through 76, wherein the coverenvelops the mattress to contain it having an open end to accept themattress.

78. A continuous corrugated tube comprising

-   -   an upper substrate;    -   a middle substrate; and    -   a lower substrate;    -   wherein the middle substrate is fluted and the flutes are fixed        to the upper and lower substrates to form a single wall        corrugated product;    -   wherein a process is implicated to impart a helical twist to the        corrugation;    -   wherein a top edge of the construct abuts a bottom edge of the        construct at an angle such that the construct forms a spiral        tube.

79. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraph 78, wherein the abuttedtop edge and bottom edge are bonded to each other.

80. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraph 78, wherein the upper,middle and lower substrates independently comprise:

thermoplastic polymers, thermoset polymers, fiberglass reinforcedpolymers (FRP), and metal roll stock.

81. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraphs 78-80, wherein thethermoplastic polymers are independently selected from foam or sheets ofpoly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.

82. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraphs 78-81, wherein thethermoset polymers independently selected from allylics, alkyds,epoxies, furans, melamines, phenolics, polyurethanes, elastomers,unsaturated polyester, vinyl esters and combination thereof.

83. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraphs 78-82, wherein themetal roll stock is independently selected from: steel, iron, copper,brass, bronze, tin, aluminum and alloys thereof.

84. The continuous corrugated tube of paragraphs 78-83, wherein the bondis made by welding, melting, adhesives, patching and combinationsthereof.

85. A method to prepare a continuous corrugated tube, comprising thesteps of:

-   -   (a) providing an upper and a lower substrate at a rate of V₁ and        V₂ wherein the upper and lower substrates are maintained at a        distance S₁ from each other; and    -   (b) providing a middle substrate, interposed between the upper        substrate and the lower substrate, at a rate of V₃, at a        trajectory to impact the upper or lower substrates, the middle        substrate rebounds in an opposite direction to contact the        opposing substrate, wherein the rate V₃ is greater than the        rates of V₁, and V₂ such that the middle substrate forms flutes        alternately contacting the upper and lower substrates;    -   (c) maintaining a rate of either V₁ or V₂ greater than the rate        of V₂ or V₁ respectively resulting in a curved corrugated        product; and    -   (d) implementing a process to impart a helical twist to the        corrugation such that a top edge of the product abuts a bottom        edge of the product to from a spiral,

wherein a continuous corrugated tube is formed.

86. In one aspect the helical twist could be imparted by physicalcontortion of the corrugated product or by other mechanical meansthereof.

87. In another aspect the upper or lower substrates are wider than themiddle substrate such that one or both outer edges do not have acorrugated form attached thereto. Therefore, for example, with regard toa spiral form, the outer edge of the substrate can be curved upon itselfsuch that the edges can be attached be methods known in the art, such asby sonication, heat welding and the like.

88. The method of paragraphs 85-87, wherein bonding is accomplishedusing: an adhesive, a solvent suitable to partially dissolve thesubstrates, infrared heat, heat, laser or ultrasonic welding, patchingand combinations thereof.

89. The method of paragraphs 85-88, wherein the method furthercomprises, independently selecting the upper, middle and lowersubstrates from: polymers and metal.

90. The method of paragraphs 85-89, wherein the polymers are selectedfrom thermoplastic polymers, thermoset polymers and fiberglassreinforced polymers (FRP).

91. The method of paragraphs 85-90, wherein the metal is selected from:iron, steel, copper, brass, bronze, tin, aluminum and alloys thereof.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the variousexemplary embodiments outlined above, various alternatives,modifications, variations, improvements and/or substantial equivalents,whether known or that are or may be presently unforeseen, may becomeapparent to those having at least ordinary skill in the art.Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments according to this invention, asset forth above, are intended to be illustrative not limiting. variouschanges may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention. therefore, the invention is intended to embrace all known orlater-developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvementsand/or substantial equivalents of these exemplary embodiments.

1. a continuous corrugated tube comprising an upper substrate; a middlesubstrate; and a lower substrate; wherein the middle substrate is flutedand the flutes are fixed to the upper and lower substrates to form asingle wall corrugated product; wherein a top edge of the constructabuts a bottom edge of the construct at an angle such that the constructforms a spiral tube.
 2. The continuous corrugated tube of claim 1,wherein the abutted top edge and bottom edge are bonded to each other.3. The continuous corrugated tube of claim 1, wherein the upper, middleand lower substrates independently comprise: thermoplastic polymers,thermoset polymers, fiberglass reinforced polymers (FRP), and metal rollstock.
 4. The continuous corrugated tube of claim 3, wherein thethermoplastic polymers are independently selected from foam or sheets ofpoly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide(PGA), D-lactide, D,L-lactide, L-lactide,D,L-lactide-epsilon-caprolactone,D,L-lactide-glycolide-epsilon-caprolactone, polyepsilon-caprolactone,glycolide-caprolactone or combinations thereof, carboxymethyl cellulose,cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate propionate, ethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl methyl celluloses, andalkyl celluloses, polydimethylsiloxane, polyethylene-co-(vinyl acetate),poloxamer, polyvinylpyrrolidone, poloxamine, polypropylene, polyamide,polyacetal, polyester, poly ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene,polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or “Teflon™”), styrene butadiene rubber,polyethylene, polypropylene, polyphenylene oxide-polystyrene,poly-alpha-chloro-p-xylene, polymethylpentene, polysulfone,non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetatedisks and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate)), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide),delrin, polyurethane, copolymers of silicone and polyurethane,polyolefins (such as polyisobutylene and polyisoprene), acrylamides(such as polyacrylic acid and poly(acrylonitrile-acrylic acid)),neoprene, nitrile, acrylates (such as polyacrylates, poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate), methacrylates, methyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate, and copolymers of acrylates with N-vinyl pyrrolidone),N-vinyl lactams, polyacrylonitrile, glucomannan gel, vulcanized rubber,poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) and combinations thereof.
 4. The continuouscorrugated tube of claim 3, wherein the thermoset polymers independentlyselected from allylics, alkyds, epoxies, furans, melamines, phenolics,polyurethanes, elastomers, unsaturated polyester, vinyl esters andcombination thereof.
 5. The continuous corrugated tube of claim 3,wherein the metal roll stock is independently selected from: steel,iron, copper, brass, bronze, tin, aluminum and alloys thereof.
 6. Thecontinuous corrugated tube of claim 2, wherein the bond is made bywelding, melting, adhesives, patching and combinations thereof.
 7. Amethod to prepare a continuous corrugated tube, comprising the steps of:(a) providing an upper and a lower substrate at a rate of V₁ and V₂wherein the upper and lower substrates are maintained at a distance S₁from each other; and (b) providing a middle substrate, interposedbetween the upper substrate and the lower substrate, at a rate of V₃, ata trajectory to impact the upper or lower substrates, the middlesubstrate rebounds in an opposite direction to contact the opposingsubstrate, wherein the rate V₃ is greater than the rates of V₁, and V₂such that the middle substrate forms flutes alternately contacting theupper and lower substrates; (c) maintaining a rate of either V₁ or V₂greater than the rate of V₂ or V₁ respectively resulting in a curvedcorrugated product, wherein a continuous corrugated tube is formed. 8.The method of claim 7, wherein a process is implemented to impart ahelical twist to the corrugation product such that a top edge of theproduct abuts a bottom edge of the product to from a spiral
 9. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the upper, middle, and lower substrates havedifferent widths and aligned accordingly resulting in a corrugatedproduct having the outer edge of the upper and lower substrate to beattached so as to provide a spiral configuration.
 10. The method ofclaim 9, wherein bonding is accomplished using: an adhesive, a solventsuitable to partially dissolve the substrates, infrared heat, heat,laser or ultrasonic welding, patching and combinations thereof.
 11. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the method further comprises, independentlyselecting the upper, middle and lower substrates from: polymers andmetal.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the polymers are selectedfrom thermoplastic polymers, thermoset polymers and fiberglassreinforced polymers (FRP).
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the metalis selected from: iron, steel, copper, brass, bronze, tin, aluminum andalloys thereof.